Robert Fred Kersting's Obituary
Robert Fred Kersting, age 89, passed away at home on July 18, 2025. Robert was born to Fred and Libby (Cole) Kersting on December 30, 1935, in Muskegon, Michigan. Robert graduated from Muskegon High School, after which he enlisted in the United States Army. Following his proud service in the United States Army, Robert worked at S.D. Warren in maintenance as a welder, which he was extremely skilled at, until his retirement in 1997. On August 7, 1959, Robert married Beverly in Muskegon, Michigan. Together, they enjoyed 64 years of marriage and raised 3 children, before Beverly preceded him in death in 2024.
Robert was a hard worker and always had projects in progress in the garage or garden. He had an outstanding ability to think outside the box to create or fix anything. Every year after harvesting sweet corn from his garden, Robert and Beverly would host a corn roast for their friends and family, which they enjoyed immensely. He had a huge sweet tooth and could never pass up cookies or ice cream. Robert and Beverly enjoyed traveling, camping, and polka dancing. They would often travel to listen to their favorite polka band to dance. He was helpful and very proud of his family, whom he loved dearly.
Robert will be lovingly remembered by three children, Kimberly Kersting, Gary (Kathleen) Kersting, and Beth Norwick; six grandchildren: Andrew, Alexandra (Taylor), Abbigail, Annalei, Jorgan, and Jarrett; four great-grandchildren: Arabella, Jarrett, Taylor, and Camden; son-in-law, David Norwick; brother-in-law, Art Visser; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Robert is preceded in death by his wife, Beverly; his parents; and his brothers, Cecil Kersting and Earl Kersting.
A memorial service will be held for Robert at 2:00 pm on Friday, July 25, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Red Cross. Share memories with the family at https://sytsemafh.com.
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